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Board hears proposal for a 12% transient‑occupancy tax to raise general county revenue
Summary
County staff introduced a first hearing to add a 12% transient occupancy tax (TOT) for lodging in unincorporated Fresno County; HDL consultant estimated up to $4.5 million annually in discretionary revenue, which the board may use for general fund priorities if voters approve a ballot measure.
Fresno County staff presented a first hearing on April 14 to add a chapter to the county code authorizing a 12% transient‑occupancy tax (TOT) on short‑term lodging in unincorporated areas. The measure, if sent to voters and approved in November, would produce general‑purpose revenue for the county.
Paige Benvitas of the County Administrative Office explained the ordinance would establish a 12% rate, collection requirements and remedies for nonpayment. The county’s consultant, HDL, analyzed comparable rates in California and estimated potential discretionary revenue at roughly $4.5 million annually at a 12% rate.
The presentation noted that most California counties and many Fresno County cities levy TOTs in the 10–12% range. The county’s TOT would apply only to unincorporated areas; it would not stack on top of city TOTs. Board members raised questions about the distribution of revenue and whether portions should support visitor promotion or local public safety and infrastructure in areas where short‑term rentals concentrate.
Staff noted that any dedicated uses in the ordinance would convert the measure into a special tax, raising the voter threshold to two‑thirds; the current proposal is for a general tax requiring only a simple majority. The board completed the first hearing and will set a second hearing as required before any measure is placed on the ballot.
